If you’re a student considering an international college application, the process can seem daunting. But don’t worry! We have just the guide to help you figure it all out. Sovereignty, identity formation, and a sense of community are all essential factors for realizing your educational potential beyond your local area.
We’ve compiled a list of five reasons why studying in the United States should be on your shortlist. Pursuing an education in the US as an international student is increasingly attractive, especially for those hailing from developing countries or who have lived in one prior to achieving American citizenship. This status comes with many unique advantages, but also responsibilities that many young Americans may not fully understand compared to their future classmates.
1: Networking Opportunities
Networking is a crucial element in finding employment. Many people secure their current job through friends or family connections. These days, there’s a network for almost everything. Social media sites like LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube are some of the most popular ways to network, alongside the traditional routes of door-to-door sales and job board careers.
This is excellent news for anyone who’s looking to build a career in start-ups or SMEs, or work for exciting organizations like NHS Digital or Taylor Weddell. Regardless of how well-known or well-loved you may be by your current employer, networking is an effective way of getting noticed and building relationships. It’s an opportunity to establish connections that will be valuable when they bring your skills into their organization or business.
2: The Predominant Job Market
In 2009, the average US citizen earned roughly $47,500 a year. Fast forward to 2019, and that number has risen to nearly $56,000 – over $30,000 more than the global average. Despite the occasional bump in the road, all signs point to this upward trend continuing. As the number of millionaires increases, so does the number of people with disposable income, resulting in more opportunities to purchase goods and services produced by those millionaires.
But despite this era of increasing prosperity, the standard of living for the average person has actually decreased over the past few decades. In the past, securing a job with a reasonable salary and benefits was a realistic goal for many. Nowadays, those opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce, even for the most qualified candidates. The job market has been incredibly challenging, particularly for creative individuals. To make a living in this field, one must be exceptionally skilled and talented.
It’s clear that wealth is accumulating at an ever-increasing rate, with most economists predicting that it will largely flow to the top 1 percent of households by 2021. While this may be positive for some, it highlights the need for change to ensure that everyone has access to opportunities for growth and success.
3: Elite International Reputation
The value of your credentials is far greater than the cost of your education. Your degree serves as a calling card after graduation, a symbol of merit for prospective employers. Your professional life will be defined by your competence and dedication, not your income level. International students often prioritize elite international reputation as a ranking system and must pass a US entrance exam to enter a university in the US.
As students have ample time to gain knowledge, research, and experience in their careers after completing a baccalaureate or higher degree, it can be challenging to determine the best international school in the world. Nevertheless, when considering costs and benefits, it becomes clear that an internationally accredited institution can provide better value in terms of both qualifications and cost.
4: Cultural Exposure
As an international student in the US, you can experience a rich and diverse culture that offers new perspectives and insights. Cultural exchanges are a great way to bridge gaps, learn about other societies, and gain a more neutral understanding of people from different backgrounds.
In 2021, more than 39 million international students enrolled in college in the United States. This reflects a 13% increase from the previous year and a 14% increase from 2016. California alone has over 400,000 international students enrolled, representing an increase of 19% from the previous year and a 30% increase from 2015. These students seek educational opportunities that provide valuable skills and perspectives to prepare them for their future.
Studying in the US can also improve your chances of being accepted into top universities. Historically, American universities have been avenues for international students to receive excellent training and education.
5: A Plethora of Options
When searching for a school online, it’s important to consider several factors. What is the cost? How likely are you to complete the course? Will it provide a valuable hands-on experience? Does it qualify you for grants or loans?
We’ve created an article to help answer these questions by uncovering the best online colleges that will open doors for you. With so many options available, finding a good educational opportunity can be challenging. That’s why we’ve produced a comprehensive ranking of community colleges by price, acceptance rates, and job placement rates.
Our easy-to-use tool is powered by data pulled directly from school websites and will quickly guide you to available scholarships or grants to cover your educational expenses. Don’t let the search for a great school overwhelm you – we’ve got you covered.